Annapurna Circuit Trek
18 DaysAnnapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most visited trek destinations in Nepal. Thanks to its spectacular scenery, good services, and reasonable price. Its unique geographical features and diverse landscapes put an excellent display for the hikers. It also delights them with the lovely view of rolling hills, green fields, and roaring white rivers.
Nepal’s trekking trails are world-renowned for their breathtaking scenery, dramatic landscapes, and wilderness. Their tranquil setting, complete with unique geological wonders, high-mountain meadows, and glacially carved valleys, draws trekkers from all over the world.
Annapurna Circuit is one of the few hiking trails that’s always ready to accompany the visitors and treat them to the most incredible scenery. As a great host, it provides them with the best of the best panoramic vista that looks even more gorgeous in Spring and Fall.
That’s not all; even the locals here are amiable and never upset to accommodate the visitors. And this is only to mention some of them. There are several reasons why Annapurna Circuit is so popular among hikers. A few of them are as follows.
The Annapurna Circuit trek is breathtaking, with a pristine trail offering a glimpse of snow-capped mountains, sweeping hills, and a steep-sided valley. It gives trekkers every reason to hike the classic trail that leads all the way up to Thorong La Pass..
The trek provides an intriguing insight into the local customs and traditions of the region’s various ethnic groups. Most importantly, it introduces visitors to the Gurung community’s distinct culture, heritage, and way of life.
Overview
Visitors will be able to see the region’s people’s great influence, particularly through their villages, historical and religious sites. Thakali, Tamang, Magar, and Brahmin are other ethnic groups whose spiritual and cultural influences are felt in the local community.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is located in central Nepal and covers a distance of 100-145 miles. It all starts with a half-day drive to Besisahar and a short hike down the mountain to Bulbule. The trek continues the next day with an uphill walk and crossing of several bridges to reach Chamje.
In the coming days, we’ll walk through a number of villages, including Chame, Pisang, and Manang. Because the trek above Manang is more difficult due to low atmospheric pressure, we’ll rest at the village. We travel from Manang to Yak Kharka, which has only a few settlements.
However, there are a lot of yaks grazing here. From here, we embark on the most difficult trek to Thorong Phedi via Thorong La Pass. We’ll have a fantastic view of the Annapurna massif and Dhaulagiri from the cliff. We’ll descend the trail to Muktinath after crossing the pass and visiting the religious shrine there. From there, we take a rugged path to Jomsom that looks more like a desert.
We’ll take a short break for breakfast after arriving in the lovely village of Kagbeni, then rush to the trail. The journey to Jomsom continues with a gentle walk along a trail that overlooks the beautiful Kali Gandaki River before beginning a rocky ascent.
We’ll get to the village by walking past the terrace farm and through the deep valley. The following day, we’ll take a scenic drive to Tatopani, where you can also enjoy a hot spring bath, before returning to the valley.
In between trips, we’ll take a short uphill walk to Ghorepani, which is a favorite stop for trekkers to admire the stunning views of Machhapure and Gangapurna.
Many trekkers who are pressed for time and cannot make it to the circuit trek Ghorepani to see Annapurna. We’ll also walk up Poon Hill’s steep trail to see the stunning sunrise view. In this way, trekking the Annapurna Circuit with Nepal Eco Adventure will provide you with an unforgettable experience.
NOTE: This package is 18 days long, which includes arrival, a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu, and departure days. If you want to jump right in, we have a 15-day Annapurna circuit trek package available. You can also see what the price includes and excludes..
Highlights
- A breathtaking view of the Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri, and Lamjung Himal ranges.
- Travel through beautiful river valleys, including the Marshyangdi River Valley and the Kali Gandaki River Valley.
- Immerse yourself in the local Himalayan culture and lifestyle.
- Explore Tilicho's tranquil glacial lake and its undulating landscapes.
- Cross the Thorong La Pass and follow the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world's deepest gorge.
- Tatopani hot spring bath to relieve stress
- Take in the glistening glacial lakes, waterfalls, and gorges.
- Visit Muktinath, a Hindu and Buddhist sacred temple.
- A brief visit to the Barge Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in the Manang district.
Itinerary
What is Included?
- Private airport pickup and drop-off.
- Three nights in Kathmandu and one night in Pokhara, both with breakfast.
- During the trek, three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided.
- Every night after dinner, I eat fresh fruit.
- During the trek, you will stay in a tea house (Trekking Lodge).
- ACAP entry permit and TIMS card are required.
- Bus to Bhulbule, followed by another tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
- Private transport from Nayapul to Pokhara and shared Jeep/Bus from Jomsom to Tatopani.
- English-speaking guide with full salary, food, drinks, lodging, transportation, and insurance
- A Porter who is strong and helpful and has the necessary equipment (one porter for two people).
- Medical supplies (including a first-aid kit) will be available.).
- Your travel insurance company will cover the cost of an emergency helicopter service.
- Sleeping bags, a down jacket, a duffel bag, and walking poles (if you don't have your own, these will be returned after the trip).
- As a souvenir, you will receive a Nepal Eco Adventure T-shirt cap.
- Government taxes and expenditures.
- Private vehicle for a guided city tour of Kathmandu.
- Oxymeter to check your pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate twice daily (very useful for checking Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) symptoms) This will ensure that your trek is in the best possible hands for all levels of trekker.
- Groups of 6 or more people require an assistant guide.
- Meals while visiting Kathmandu Lunch and dinner are served.
- Pokhara meals.
- Fee for Nepal entry visa.
- Your medical and travel insurance (recommended).
- International flights.
- Your personal expenses, such as laundry, battery charging, phone calls, and shopping, etc.
- Hot and cold alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Desserts Chocolate, cake, pie, and pudding are examples of sweets.
- Gratuities for the tour guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected).
- Entrance fees to Kathmandu sightseeing monuments are approximately $30 USD per person.
FAQs
Although the Annapurna Circuit Trek is considered moderate and does not include a technical climb, trekkers will face some challenges. They’ll have to climb steep hills and walk through rugged terrain with sharp rocks and boulders. Due to low barometric pressure, hiking Thorong La Pass is one of the most difficult challenges for Annapurna Circuit hikers.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a risk-free trek. However, be aware of the weather, avoid walking in the dark, and stay on the main path. Don’t abandon your guide or companions.
Also, walk slowly and be aware of altitude sickness symptoms. If altitude sickness becomes severe, do not push yourself and prepare to return.
The cost of an 18-day Annapurna Circuit Trek is largely determined by the length of stay and the services available. It also varies depending on whether you are trekking alone or with an agency. If done through a travel agency, the cost can range between US$1,200 and US$2,000, depending on the itinerary. We have a $1250 package. The fee includes the cost of a trekking permit, lodging, food, porters, and guides.
The trek, on the other hand, can be inexpensive or expensive depending on a variety of factors. The number of trekkers, porters, trek routes, trek season, accommodating hotels, and number of trekking days are all important factors in determining trek costs.
Typically, you walk for 5-7 hours per day. However, you may walk less or more than that on some days.
You spend so many days away from comforts. Having a guide makes your journey more enjoyable. You won’t have to worry about lodging or meals.
We assist you in pre-planning your entire trip, and you should have no problems..
Hiring a porter on the Annapurna Circuit alleviates the trekker’s burden. It enables them to walk the trail more comfortably and efficiently. Carrying a load on your back for 5-7 hours a day is also challenging. Porters in this area are strong and walk faster than trekkers. Having a porter/porters allows you to enjoy the trip more freely.
Trekkers who can navigate the trail while carrying their backpacks do not require the services of a porter. Individual trekkers who have never traveled to mountainous regions should consider hiring a porter because they take the weight off your shoulders and make the trip more relaxing for only $25 to $30.
Yes, unless you’re willing to carry it yourself or hire more than one porter, you can bring extra luggage on the trek. It’s because a porter can only assist with a hiker’s 15-20 kg load. Trekkers will be charged an additional fee for excess weight.
Is it necessary to purchase travel insurance for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?
Tourists should purchase travel insurance to cover their medical and helicopter rescue helicopter expenses. Sometimes passengers become ill and must be airlifted to the nearest hospital.
Travel insurance is usually recommended for all trekkers in case of an emergency. Because our trekkers will be taking a local bus throughout the region, they will not need to purchase one of these. Their backpack and equipment are safely transported to the trek’s starting point, eliminating the risk of theft and stealing. If something goes wrong, travel insurance provides an extra layer of protection.
Yes, you will require two separate permits. Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit and TIMS card ( ANCAP). Because there will be several checkpoints, make sure to get them in Kathmandu and keep them with you.
Although trekking permits are required for access to the Annapurna Circuit, the permit fee is already included in the trekking package, and there is no additional charge for conservation area entry.
Thorong La Pass is a difficult part of the trek. Early in the morning, you begin your ascent to Thorong La Pass. The total length of the day’s walk exceeds 8 hours.
The trail on the pass, on the other hand, is well-marked, and there will be a lot of trekkers during peak seasons. However, before ascending to Thorong La Pass, be aware of the weather conditions.
A porter will typically transport 20-25 kg of weight between two trekkers. You can carry a small backpack with daily essentials while porters carry your load.
Because of the constant elevation gain and loss, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is less likely to cause altitude sickness. Aside from that, trekkers will need to acclimate before venturing high in order to adjust to the weather and temperature.
High altitude exposure has a minor effect on trekkers. Beginners with no prior trekking experience may experience minor symptoms such as headaches and dizziness. However, they will be fine to walk the trail after some rest.
Hikers must exercise caution while ascending Thorong La Pass at 5416 meters because the trails are steep. They may feel an elevation gain at this altitude, but if they take precautions, Annapurna Circuit trekkers can easily cope with the low atmospheric pressure.
Altitude Motion Sickness can affect anyone who has never lived at a high altitude. To avoid altitude sickness, you must exercise extreme caution.
Hydrate your body, go for a slow and steady walk, and rest when necessary. If you notice any signs of altitude sickness, be cautious not to escalate the situation.
Small medical clinics can be found in the circuit’s villages. There are also hospitals in Manang and Jomsom. During the peak season, some high-altitude temporary clinics provide medical services.
If you become ill or injured during the trek, your guide will work with you to determine the best course of action.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a well-known classic trek. As a result, teahouses are available in villages along the Annapurna Circuit route to accommodate trekkers..
The teahouses in the majority of the trek’s villages are basic, with basic food and lodging. Rooms include a bed, a blanket, and a few other necessities. Bathrooms are usually adequate but not of the highest quality.
Dal Bhat with vegetable curry is the most common meal. Although many tea houses serve western cuisine, nothing beats hearty Dal Bhat meals.
The Annapurna Circuit trek costs $1,250 per person in a travel package. It covers the cost of local transportation, food, lodging, a guide, and a porter..
We recommend that all of our hikers bring extra spending money in the range of $15-$25 USD or equivalent in local currency to cover snacks, hot showers (only above Manag, which cost around $5), electricity, internet, charging camera batteries, bar bills phones, etc. It is preferable to purchase these items in town because the price increases with altitude.
If you want to spend more money on snacks and bars or western dishes, expect to pay up to US$50 per day. Trekkers are responsible for any personal expenses not included in the package.
The best seasons for Annapurna Circuit trekkers are autumn (late September to November) and spring (mid-March to early May). They have a warm and humid climate with some moisture in the lower region.
The skies are clearer than at any other time of year, so you’ll have a better chance of seeing Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. The greenery, fall foliage, and blooming flowers make the hikers’ surroundings even more delightful and amazing.
The length of the Annapurna Circuit trek is determined by where hikers begin and end their journey, and can range between 160 and 230 kilometers. The circuit Trek can be completed in as little as 12 to 18 days, but a full tour can take up to a month.
The Annapurna Circuit trek is a tea house trek because it can be found at higher elevations with a few settlements. They are more convenient and affordable, with all of the necessary amenities. The quality of service may vary between tea houses, but one thing is certain: they all have a single bed and shared bathrooms. The guest will be provided with a pillow, blanket, and bedsheet, but the use of solar heating and hot water will be charged separately.
For a small fee, many guesthouses provide hikers with wi-fi service. It may work fine in lower hills, but in the mountains, the connection may be unstable, preventing trekkers from using the wifi when needed.
Do you offer trekking equipment? Despite the fact that trekking equipment is a personal expense, we provide it to our clients. We provide everything they need to have a safe and memorable trip, including a duffel bag, hiking poles, and a sleeping bag..
We provide trekkers with down jackets because the weather is chilly at high altitudes with low temperatures. It will help them deal with the cold weather on the Annapurna Circuit and even on Thamserku. When they return to Kathmandu, they must return the equipment to Nepal Eco Adventure.
Apart from these items, if trekkers discover that any other equipment is missing from the list, they must bring it with them from their home country or purchase it. Thamel has a plethora of shops that can assist trekkers in obtaining the necessary equipment. It can be low-cost or high-end, which is a bit pricey but has unrivaled quality.
There are ATMs and money exchange services in Chame, Jomsom, and Tatopani, so don’t worry about running out of money on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Keep in mind, however, that the service is not available at higher elevations. As a result, if you need to exchange currency, go to Chame, Tatopani, or Jomsom.
Yes, you can hike the Annapurna Circuit on your own, but we highly recommend hiring a professional trek guide to show you the way. It will make the journey easier for you and will allow you to complete the trek faster.
- Have a large group? We can assist.
- No Booking Fees
- Exclusive group discount.
- Confirmed departure
- We may tailor your tour based on your desire.